A John Hinde card from 1967 with the following write-up on the back:
Thatched cottage, Connemara. Connemara is a region of supreme scenic grandeur in the west of Ireland. The coastline is fretted and carved into hundreds of rocky inlets which are almost indistinguishable from its numerous lakelets. This cottage is typical of the region - thatched and whitewashed. The type of thatching varies according to the region, and is often carefully pegged down to resist the winter storms. Many of them have such wide fireplaces that several people can sit under the chimney beside the turf fire.
The second card dates from 1996 and merely says "A typical Irish cottage". I feel sure this wasn't where the sender was staying, but the message says "Ireland is lovely and peaceful. Cottage rather primitive but overlooks the harbour. Spent first night in Kilkenny - very interesting."
I always think "interesting" is a word with a multitude of unexpressed meanings.
I have always wondered how straw on the roofs really kept out the rain. I guess it is a lot thicker than it looks. I love the way they look.
ReplyDeleteI've also wondered how thatched roofs stood up to the elements. I watched part of the installation of one though and it's a very interesting process.
ReplyDeleteIt amazes me how pics of donkeys, gypsy caravans and 'black houses' were used well into the 80's on Irish postcards! Dublin's houses were ignored.
ReplyDeleteStaying on Adullamite's point, I had a postcard sent to me from Ireland around 1999 and it was of a thatched roof cottage as well, it looked like a well mainted modern version. Very beautiful!
ReplyDeleteReminds me of that song "Connemara". It's a beautiful area with lots of lakes.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful area. I cannot believe that I have never visited Ireland and it is the home of my ancestors. Alas, I don't think I'll make it now.
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